Best Locally-Owned Coffee Shops Near JBLM (Military-Friendly Favorites)
One of the quickest ways to settle into life near JBLM is to find “your” coffee shop — the place where you can breathe for a minute, knock out work between tasks, meet a friend, or just grab that morning fuel before heading through the gates.
As someone who helps a lot of military families relocate to Washington, I know how grounding those small routines can feel, especially during PCS season. This guide is built around locally-owned favorites — not chain spots — all within an easy drive of the base.
If you’re still getting familiar with the area, you may want to pair this with The Best Neighborhoods Near JBLM for Military Families (2025 Guide):
1. The Coffee Bean Café — Dupont (Closest to JBLM Lewis Gate)
Dupont is known for being one of the most military-friendly cities in Washington, and The Coffee Bean Café fits right in. It’s cozy, it’s locally owned, and it’s filled with neighbors, soldiers, and families who pop in before work or after school drop-off.
Why locals love it:
• Perfect for quick in-and-out mornings
• Friendly staff who remember names
• Easy access to I-5 and JBLM
To understand why so many military families choose Dupont, here’s Living in Dupont, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Commutes & Community Life (2025 Guide):
2. Anthem Coffee — Tacoma (Multiple Locations, All Locally-Owned)
Anthem is a Pierce County staple. Each location feels slightly different, but all share that upbeat, community-centered vibe. The Tacoma locations — particularly in Old Town and downtown — are popular for military families who want more space to work or study.
What people love:
• Great for remote work
• Excellent espresso
• Locally owned with a mission-driven culture
If you're considering Tacoma as a home base, this is a great resource:
Living in Tacoma, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Lifestyle & Real Estate (2025 Guide)
3. Topside Coffee Cabin — Steilacoom (Historic + Charming)
Steilacoom is Washington’s oldest town — quiet, peaceful, and right along the waterfront. Topside Coffee Cabin reflects that same character. Their upstairs patio overlooks the Sound, making it one of the most beautiful coffee spots near JBLM.
You’ll love:
• Homemade pastries
• Ocean views
• Relaxed, small-town pace
If you're curious about life in this charming area, here's your guide:
Living in Steilacoom, WA: Waterfront Views, Historic Charm & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
4. Coffee Kitchen — Lakewood (South Tacoma Border)
Lakewood is one of the closest cities to JBLM, and Coffee Kitchen is its hidden gem. It's a family-owned shop with a bright, welcoming feel and surprisingly large menu. Military families love it for the easy access and consistent quality.
Why it’s a favorite:
• Spacious seating
• Friendly atmosphere
• Great breakfast options
To learn more about the neighborhoods nearby, here’s Living in Lakewood, WA: Lakes, Neighborhoods, Commutes & Lifestyle (2025 Guide).
5. Blue Steele Coffee — Spanaway/Graham Area
Many service members choose Spanaway or Graham for affordability and proximity, and Blue Steele Coffee is a major local favorite. It’s drive-thru–friendly, consistent, and perfect for early-morning commutes.
What locals appreciate:
• Great specialty drinks
• Military-friendly service
• Quick drive-thru
If you're exploring Spanaway or Graham as housing options, this is a perfect fit:
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA: Affordability, New Construction, Schools & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
6. Olympia Coffee Roasting — Tacoma
Olympia Coffee is technically known nationwide, but the Tacoma location is very much a local spot. This shop is ideal for slow mornings, specialty roasts, and anyone who appreciates ethically sourced beans.
Ideal for:
• Remote work days
• Coffee purists
• Long conversations
For more on Tacoma's lifestyle and neighborhoods:
Living in Tacoma (2025 Guide)
7. Espresso Yourself — Puyallup (South Hill)
A small, family-owned shop with a huge local following. Their blended drinks, pastries, and warm service make it a go-to spot for South Hill residents.
Perfect for:
• Working parents
• Students
• A quick pick-me-up between errands
If you're considering South Hill as an option, here’s your deep dive:
Living in South Hill, WA: Schools, Neighborhoods, Commutes & Real-Life Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
8. Finch Creek — Gig Harbor
A little farther from JBLM but still a favorite among families stationed on the Kitsap side or those who prefer waterfront communities. Finch Creek offers artisan pastries, high-quality coffee, and a peaceful, small-town vibe.
To get a sense of this area’s lifestyle:
Living in Gig Harbor, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Waterfront Lifestyle & Real Estate (2025 Guide)
9. Why Coffee Shops Matter When You’re New to Washington
When military families relocate here, routines often disappear overnight. Finding your local coffee spot helps rebuild those small pieces of normalcy — the ones that make a new place feel like home.
Coffee shops also help you understand the personality of each neighborhood:
• Dupont = walkable, tight-knit, military-centered
• Steilacoom = quiet, coastal, peaceful
• Tacoma = artsy, diverse, community-driven
• Spanaway/Graham = affordable, practical, family-focused
If you’re trying to get a feel for which lifestyle fits you best, these guides can help:
Rent vs. Buy Near JBLM: How Military Families Choose the Right Path During a PCS
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about the coffee culture in Pierce County — it’s local, it’s personal, and it helps anchor you during a season of transition. Whether you're stationed here temporarily or planning to settle more long-term, finding your go-to spot can make Washington feel like home a whole lot faster.
If you’re relocating to Washington or trying to figure out the best neighborhood near JBLM, I’d love to help you make a plan that fits your commute, budget, and lifestyle.
If you're planning a move in Washington, I’d love to help you create a plan that actually makes sense for your timeline and budget.
Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence